Kenya Airways (KQ) has dismissed claims that a Rabbi was denied boarding due to his appearance or religious background.
The airline issued a statement on Thursday, February 6, 2025, addressing a video circulating on social media that reported discriminatory practices against the Rabbi at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.
In the viral post on X, the airline was accused of engaging in antisemitism by barring the Rabbi from boarding due to his appearance.
However, Kenya Airways clarified the circumstances surrounding the incident, stating that the decision to deny boarding was based on safety protocols rather than religious profiling. According to KQ, the situation involved a group of passengers who were causing a disturbance at the boarding gate.
“We would like to address a video circulating on social media that alleges guests were denied boarding solely based on their appearance and religion. We want to assure everyone that this is not the case. The facts are as follows: Our team in Johannesburg observed a group causing a disturbance at the boarding gate. Upon further investigation, it became clear that the group was behaving disruptively and appeared to be intoxicated,” the airline stated.
KQ on disruptive passanger
Kenya Airways emphasized that their staff acted in accordance with international civil aviation regulations, which prohibit boarding for passengers who are intoxicated or disruptive.
“Our personnel explained to them that our safety management protocol and international civil aviation regulations require us not to board any passenger who appears to be intoxicated or disruptive. This is a regulatory requirement in aviation and is essential for the safety, security, and comfort of all passengers and crew on board,” KQ added.
We would like to address a video circulating on social media that alleges guests were denied boarding solely based on their appearance and religion. We want to assure everyone that this is not the case. The facts are as follows:
Our team in Johannesburg observed a group causing… https://t.co/GIjxrByrH4
— Kenya Airways (@KenyaAirways) February 6, 2025
The airline noted that while three passengers from the group were denied boarding, the rest of their companions were allowed to board the flight. This, they argued, serves as evidence that the decision was not based on religious profiling.
“Although the guests expressed dissatisfaction and suggested they were being profiled because of their religion, this was not the case, as the rest of their group travelled on the same flight,” the statement read.
Kenya Airways reiterated its commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and non-discrimination.
“At Kenya Airways, we celebrate diversity and view it as a valuable aspect that enriches our community. We are strongly committed to a zero-tolerance policy against any form of discrimination, harassment, or bullying based on race, sex, disability, gender, age, beliefs, or socio-economic background. We genuinely care about ensuring that everyone is treated with dignity and respect,” the airline affirmed.
The airline also assured the public that it takes all allegations seriously and conducts thorough investigations when such claims arise.
“We take all allegations seriously and conduct thorough investigations to address inappropriate behaviour, always adhering to aviation and industry best practices. Most importantly, our top priority is the safety and well-being of our staff and guests. We are committed to ensuring that every journey with us is comfortable, enjoyable, safe, and secure, and we will continue to uphold this commitment in all our operations,” the statement read.
